51吃瓜网

Pacific Union College is pleased to announce that Dr. Tamara Tirado has been appointed as the new Dean of Nursing and Emergency Management.

Dr. Tirado holds a Doctor of Nursing Practice from Loma Linda University, a master's in nursing and family nurse practitioner from Sonoma State University, and both bachelor's and associate degrees in nursing from Pacific Union College.

Serving as the BSN Program Manager and Professor of Nursing, Dr. Tirado has dedicated 17 years to PUC, bringing knowledge and experience in curriculum development, accreditation, student success initiatives, faculty mentorship, and committee service across the college.

Over the past 20 years, she has worked as a registered nurse, family nurse practitioner, clinic manager, and educator, bearing extensive experience to equip future nurses to serve with humility.

“I’ve been fortunate to work with dedicated faculty, support passionate students, and help shape programs that truly make a difference. The most rewarding part has been seeing our students grow, both academically and personally, and knowing that we’re preparing them to care for others with excellence and compassion,” said Dr. Tirado.

Coming into this new role, Dr. Tirado’s vision entails building on the department’s strong foundation while expanding reach, innovation, and impact, “fostering a learning environment that emphasizes clinical excellence, servant leadership, and adaptability to the evolving healthcare landscape.”

PUC President Ralph Trecartin is excited to welcome her as the new leader of the team and knows she is ready for this challenge, bringing a sense of comfort and continuity to the campus.

"Dr. Tamara Tirado brings with her a wealth of experience and perspective to this important role," he said. "I have always appreciated her contributions to the community and culture of our campus, as well as her outstanding academic impact. She has impressed me with her knowledge about our nursing program and with her vision for how we may want to continue to build and improve upon the advances made already under the able leadership of Dr. Kimberly Dunker and our outstanding nursing and emergency management team.”

PUC Vice President of Academic Administration Lindsay Hayasaka also noted the nursing program’s flourishing under Dr. Dunker’s leadership as well as the importance of student success. “Dr. Tirado’s extensive experience and deep understanding of the program make her ideally suited to lead it through this next chapter. We are thrilled that she is taking on this new role and leading both the nursing and emergency management programs into their next chapters.”

Dr. Tirado remains inspired by her students and their resilience, curiosity, and desire to serve others, as well as her colleagues, who bring so much heart and expertise to their work. Outside of her successful nursing career, she stated how her family keeps her grounded and motivated to be both present and purposeful in everything she does.

“My motto is a quote from Elisabeth Elliot that says, ‘Do the next right thing, in faith, with excellence, and for the glory of God.’ This guides how I approach leadership, decision-making, and service,” Dr. Tirado shared. “We will continue to prioritize student support, community engagement, and evidence-based practice as we shape the next generation of nurses and emergency service leaders.”

Dr. Tirado began her new role on July 1.